Stop Requested

Latest Episodes:

AI and the Future of Public Transit with Stephen Kuban Dec 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Stop Requested, Levi McCollum and Christian Londono talk with Stephen Kuban, President and CEO of Kuban Transit Solutions, about how AI is actively changing the way transit agencies plan, decide, and operate. Stephen explains why AI is more than automation, how it supports better strategic thinking, and how agencies can use it to do more with limited resources while staying focused on outcomes. Stephen also shares how he is working directly with transit agencies through hands-on AI workshops and advisory programs, helping leaders move from experimentation to real-world application. Listeners interested in learning more about his AI pilot program and upcoming engagements can visit: https://kubantransit.com/ai-pilot

Navigating New Routes and Elevating Leaders with Dr. Liliane Finke Dec 09, 2025

Show notes

Dr. Liliane Finke, CEO of ExecuCoach 360, joins Christian and Levi to explore her 24-year journey in public transit and the lessons that shaped her approach to leadership, professional development, and organizational culture. They discuss how she rose from an entry-level marketing role to leading organizational development, why continuous learning matters at every stage of a career, and what it takes to drive meaningful change in regulated environments. Dr. Finke also reflects on her transition into executive coaching, the mindset shifts that unlock growth, and her guidance for anyone considering their next chapter inside or beyond public transit.

How PSTA’s CEO Brad Miller Is Redefining Transit for a Changing Florida Dec 01, 2025

Show notes

Levi and Christian sit down with Brad Miller, CEO of the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority, to trace his journey from growing up around transit in Pennsylvania to shaping some of the most talked about projects in Florida. Brad shares how early lessons on Virginia Railway Express, Charlotte’s multimodal expansion, and a leap to Des Moines prepared him to lead PSTA through the SunRunner BRT, the Clearwater multimodal hub, a full network redesign, and one of the nation’s largest zero emission bus fleets. He explains how ferries, mobility on demand, and paratransit innovation all fit into a tourism heavy region, and why investing in workforce development is central to PSTA’s culture of curiosity and innovation. Along the way, Brad offers candid advice on working with boards, navigating hurricanes and funding pressures, and saying yes to opportunities that can transform a career and a community.

Shaping Accessible Transit Systems with ADA Leader David Rishel Nov 24, 2025

Show notes

Levi and Christian are joined by David Rishel, former Executive Director of Pennsylvania’s CATA and Principal of Delta Services Group, to unpack a career spent shaping accessible transit from the ground up. David recounts launching New Jersey Transit’s statewide ADA paratransit network in the early 1990s, what it took to forecast demand and build eligibility systems when the rules were brand new, and how those decisions still echo today. The conversation dives into the real-world complexity of paratransit operations, the promise and pitfalls of co-mingling microtransit with ADA service, and why fixed-route accessibility and rider education must lead the way. David closes with a grounded look at where ADA mobility is headed next, including on-demand services, evolving software expectations, and the long-term impact of emerging technology.

Engineering a Regional Transit Ecosystem in South Florida with WSP’s Shriram Ramaratnam Nov 18, 2025

Show notes

Levi and Christian are joined by Shriram Ramaratnam, Vice President, Transit & Rail at WSP, to explore how Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties are piecing together a truly regional, multimodal transit network. Shriram shares what he’s learned from two decades of congestion modeling and BRT planning, why land use and sustainable funding are non-negotiables, and how agencies can think beyond fixed routes to serve the full door-to-door journey. They also dig into underrated technologies like real-time passenger information, the invisible challenges of maintenance and budgets, and Shriram’s advice for emerging planners learning to embrace incrementalism and compromise.

Harnessing the Power of Information with Houston METRO’s Jorge Espinoza Nov 10, 2025

Show notes

Levi and Christian sit down with Jorge Espinoza, Interim Scheduling Manager at Houston METRO and founder of the Cruzero trip-planning app, to talk about the power of information in transit. From building rider tools in Bolivia to optimizing schedules in Houston, Jorge shares how data, design, and empathy create better service for both riders and operators.

Reflecting on the Leadership and Legacy of Clinton B. Forbes (Replay) Nov 03, 2025

Show notes

In this replay from last year, Christian and Levi reflect on the life and legacy of Clinton B. Forbes, marking one year since his passing. Now, two years later, we continue to honor and remember the profound impact he made on public transit and the people who worked alongside him. Through personal stories and shared memories, they recall Clinton’s charisma, his unwavering dedication to customer service, and his transformative leadership—from ambitious initiatives like the Route Performance Maximization plan to his deep commitment to community service through United Way. Join us once again in celebrating the enduring legacy of a leader, mentor, and friend whose influence continues to shape our industry and our lives.

CapMetro’s Road to Electrification with Zero Emissions Director, David Carr (Replay) Oct 28, 2025

Show notes

David Carr, Director of Zero Emissions Bus Programs at CapMetro, shares how Austin’s transit agency is driving toward a fully zero-emission fleet. Hear about the rollout of battery-electric buses, the groundbreaking solar-powered charging infrastructure, and the real-world challenges of electrifying public transit-from workforce training to integrating new technologies. Get an inside look at one of the nation’s most ambitious sustainable transit transformations and what it means for the future of Austin’s mobility.

How Cincinnati Metro Turned Crisis into Comeback with Steve Anderson, Sr. Director of Development and Innovation (Replay) Oct 20, 2025

Show notes

After years of declining ridership, service cuts, and aging infrastructure, Cincinnati Metro found itself in a classic "death spiral." But thanks to bold leadership, a game-changing public vote, and a relentless focus on the rider experience, the agency has staged an inspiring turnaround. In this replay of Stop Requested, hosts Levi McCollum and Christian Londono sit down with Steve Anderson, Senior Director of Development and Innovation at SORTA, to unpack the story behind this remarkable comeback. Steve shares his personal journey—from sketching imaginary cities as a kid to leading transformative transit projects in Cincinnati and beyond. Discover how Metro overcame decades of underinvestment, leveraged new funding, and launched ambitious initiatives like Metro Rapid, a cutting-edge Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system designed for speed, comfort, and local character. Hear how the agency is rethinking station design, collaborating with neighborhoods, and making data-driven decisions to deliver a rider-first experience. Learn how Cincinnati Metro is building a future-focused transit system that’s reshaping mobility and revitalizing the city for the next generation.

Decarbonizing Fast Ferries with Artemis Co-Founder David Tyler Oct 13, 2025

Show notes

From Belfast to the Brooklyn Navy Yard, Artemis Technologies is scaling zero-emission, high-speed ferries. David Tyler joins Levi and Christian to explain how hydrofoils slash drag and energy use, why 150-passenger boats are the near-term sweet spot, how agencies might fund/lease fleets, and why charging and maintenance look more like EVs than marine diesels. Plus: batteries, safety certifications, and where ferries fit alongside buses and rails.

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